The term "shewbread" or "showbread" refers to the sacred bread that was placed on a special table in the Holy Place of the Tabernacle and later in the Temple, as described in the Old Testament. This bread is also known as the "Bread of the Presence" because it was set before the presence of the Lord as a perpetual offering.

Biblical Description and Instructions

The instructions for the shewbread are detailed in the Book of Exodus. According to Exodus 25:30 , "And place the Bread of the Presence on the table before Me at all times." This command underscores the requirement for the bread to be continually before the Lord, symbolizing His eternal provision and presence among His people.

The preparation and arrangement of the shewbread are further elaborated in Leviticus 24:5-9 : "You are to take fine flour and bake twelve loaves with it, using two-tenths of an ephah for each loaf. Arrange them in two rows—six per row—on the table of pure gold before the LORD. And you are to place pure frankincense near each row, so that it may serve as a memorial portion for the bread, an offering made by fire to the LORD. Every Sabbath day the bread is to be set out before the LORD on behalf of the Israelites as a perpetual covenant. It belongs to Aaron and his sons, who are to eat it in a holy place, because it is a most holy part of their perpetual share of the offerings made by fire to the LORD."

Symbolism and Significance

The shewbread holds deep symbolic meaning within the context of Israelite worship. The twelve loaves represent the twelve tribes of Israel, signifying the unity and sustenance of God's people under His covenant. The bread's perpetual presence before the Lord serves as a reminder of God's continual provision and care for His people.

The consumption of the shewbread by the priests, as described in Leviticus, highlights the sanctity and holiness required in approaching God's provisions. It also signifies the special role of the priesthood in mediating between God and the people.

New Testament References

In the New Testament, the shewbread is mentioned in the context of Jesus' teachings. In Matthew 12:3-4 , Jesus refers to an incident involving David: "Jesus replied, 'Have you not read what David did when he and his companions were hungry? He entered the house of God, and he and his companions ate the consecrated bread, which was not lawful for them to eat, but only for the priests.'" This reference underscores the principle of mercy over ritual and highlights Jesus' authority over religious traditions.

Theological Implications

The shewbread is a profound symbol of God's provision and presence. It points to the spiritual nourishment that God provides to His people, prefiguring the ultimate provision through Jesus Christ, who declared Himself to be the "bread of life" (John 6:35). This connection emphasizes the continuity of God's covenantal faithfulness from the Old Testament to the New Testament.

In summary, the shewbread is a significant element of Old Testament worship, rich in symbolism and theological meaning. It serves as a continual reminder of God's presence, provision, and the sacred relationship between God and His people.Exodus 25:30
And you shall set on the table show bread before me always.
Nave's Topical Index

2 Chronicles 2:4
Behold, I build an house to the name of the LORD my God, to dedicate it to him, and to burn before him sweet incense, and for the continual show bread, and for the burnt offerings morning and evening, on the sabbaths, and on the new moons, and on the solemn feasts of the LORD our God. This is an ordinance for ever to Israel.
Nave's Topical Index

What was the bread of the Presence (Exodus 25:30)? | GotQuestions.org

Shewbread: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com

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